What do you do if you want to gain computer science experience through temporary and contract work?

2 Find suitable opportunities

There are many sources and platforms that can help you find temporary and contract work in computer science. You can use general job boards, such as Indeed, Monster, or LinkedIn, and filter by keywords, such as "temporary", "contract", "short-term", or "project-based". You can also use specialized websites, such as Upwork, Freelancer, or Toptal, that connect freelancers and contractors with clients and projects. You can also leverage your personal and professional network, such as alumni, mentors, former colleagues, or friends, and ask for referrals, recommendations, or introductions. You can also reach out to recruiters, agencies, or consultants that specialize in temporary and contract staffing and have access to exclusive or hidden opportunities.

3 Apply and interview effectively

Once you have found some suitable opportunities, you need to apply and interview effectively. You need to tailor your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to each position and highlight your relevant skills, experience, and achievements. You need to emphasize your flexibility, adaptability, and willingness to learn and take on new challenges. You need to demonstrate your value proposition and how you can help the employer achieve their goals and solve their problems. You need to prepare for common and technical questions and showcase your communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. You need to research the employer, the project, and the expectations and ask insightful questions to clarify the scope, timeline, deliverables, and compensation.

4 Negotiate and finalize the contract

If you receive an offer for temporary or contract work, you need to negotiate and finalize the contract. You need to review the terms and conditions carefully and make sure you understand and agree with them. You need to consider the duration, schedule, payment, benefits, expenses, taxes, insurance, ownership, confidentiality, termination, and dispute resolution clauses. You need to communicate your expectations and requirements clearly and respectfully and seek legal advice if necessary. You need to sign the contract and keep a copy for your records.

5 Perform and communicate well

Once you start working on a temporary or contract basis, you need to perform and communicate well. You need to follow the instructions and guidelines of the employer and the project and deliver high-quality work on time and within budget. You need to communicate regularly and effectively with the employer and the team and provide updates, feedback, and reports. You need to use the tools and platforms that the employer prefers, such as email, phone, video, chat, or project management software. You need to be proactive, responsive, and cooperative and address any issues or concerns promptly and professionally.

6 Learn and grow from the experience

Finally, you need to learn and grow from the experience of temporary and contract work. You need to reflect on what you have learned, achieved, and enjoyed and what you have faced, struggled with, or disliked. You need to solicit and accept constructive feedback from the employer and the team and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You need to update your resume, portfolio, and credentials with your latest work and accomplishments. You need to maintain and expand your network and connections and ask for testimonials, endorsements, or referrals. You need to evaluate your goals and skills and decide whether you want to continue, change, or stop looking for temporary and contract work.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?